Where should flea treatment be applied on a cat? - briefly
Apply spot‑on flea medication to the skin at the base of the cat’s neck, between the shoulder blades, on clean, dry fur. Avoid the eyes, ears, and mouth when applying.
Where should flea treatment be applied on a cat? - in detail
The flea product that is intended for topical use should be placed on a small area of skin that the cat cannot lick. The correct site is the dorsal neck region, directly at the base of the skull, between the shoulder blades. Apply the dose to the skin, not the fur, and spread it gently with a fingertip to ensure absorption. Avoid the face, ears, eyes, and mouth because these areas are highly sensitive and may cause irritation if the medication contacts them.
If the cat has a long coat, part the hair to expose the skin before applying. Ensure the cat remains still for at least one minute after treatment to prevent the dose from being displaced. For multi‑dose products, repeat the application at the same spot according to the label schedule.
Other flea control options have different application locations:
- Oral tablets or chewables: administered directly into the mouth.
- Flea collars: positioned around the neck, with the collar snug but not restrictive.
- Sprays: applied to the entire coat, focusing on the back, tail base, and underbelly, while avoiding the head and eyes.
Following these placement guidelines maximizes efficacy and reduces the risk of adverse reactions.